The Rapids were given the day off Monday as a reward for Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Columbus, and coach Fernando Clavijo spent some of it pondering good problems.
After a dominating second- half performance against the Crew, Clavijo will have a challenge selecting a lineup, with several key players regaining availability for Saturday’s home game against FC Dallas.
Midfielder Clint Mathis (knee) is probable, Clavijo said, although Jovan Kirovski sparkled against the Crew in the attacking midfield spot.
Pablo Mastroeni will be back from suspension and national team duty, but he may not be needed in defense if Spaniard Aitor Karanka gets his work permit this week. Mastroeni usually would play defensive midfielder, but Kyle Beckerman has been outstanding, scoring twice.
Fabrice Noel scored in the striker position Saturday, not from the attacking midfield spot Clavijo planned on using him this season.
“These are good problems to have,” Clavijo said.
Cannon finds his groove
Goalie Joe Cannon had no chance Saturday on Chad Marshall’s opening goal in the 10th minute. The two-time goalkeeper of the year had allowed six goals on seven shots in two games.
Cannon eventually got a few touches and finished with six saves, including vintage stops on Rusty Pierce and John Wolyniec.
“That’s all I was waiting for is to just start playing and making some saves and remembering what it’s like, kind of trust your instincts,” Cannon said.
Peterson’s debut
Rookie Jacob Peterson nearly capped a dream debut Saturday with a goal in the second half. Peterson said he was surprised to play this early in the season, but felt he was ready. The Indiana University standout said getting in good position to score was a personal success.
“That’s what I’ll take away,” Peterson said. “I should have scored, but getting the chances (means) I’m in the right place at the right time.”
Footnotes
Beckerman’s two goals have him tied for second in MLS scoring with Kirovski and three others. Not bad for a defensive midfielder who entered the season with three goals in six seasons. … The Rapids’ reserve team beat the Columbus Crew reserves 4-0 on Sunday in Westminster with goals from Sasha Gotsmanov, Aaron King, Luchi Gonzalez and Dan Gargan. … D.C. United veteran striker Jaime Moreno was named player of the week after the 95th and 96th goals of his MLS career sealed a 2-0 victory over Chivas USA on Saturday.
